The Seventy or Seventy-Two Disciples
Quick Summary
The Seventy (or Seventy-Two) disciples were a group sent out by Jesus in Luke 10 to proclaim the kingdom of God. Though often overshadowed by the Twelve Apostles, these additional followers played a vital role in Jesus' broader mission strategy. Their story reflects Jesus' emphasis on widespread proclamation, ordinary messengers, and radical dependence on God's provision.
Who Were the Seventy or Seventy-Two Disciples?
The Gospel of Luke is the only place in the New Testament that mentions this group, and even then, the exact number varies by manuscript tradition: some say seventy, others seventy-two (Luke 10:1). The number likely has symbolic weight, echoing the seventy nations listed in Genesis 10 or the seventy elders who assisted Moses (Exodus 24:1, Numbers 11:16). Whether seventy or seventy-two, the point is clear: Jesus multiplied his reach beyond the Twelve.
These disciples were not just symbolic figures. Jesus sent them two by two into towns and villages where he himself intended to go (Luke 10:1). Their mission was urgent. They were to proclaim peace, heal the sick, and announce that the kingdom of God had come near (Luke 10:9). Unlike the Twelve, we don’t have their names. That anonymity is part of their story: ordinary disciples empowered to do extraordinary work.
What Was Their Mission?
Jesus gave the Seventy specific instructions:
Travel light (no purse, bag, or sandals)
Accept hospitality without shopping around
Heal the sick and proclaim the kingdom
Expect resistance and shake the dust off if rejected
(Luke 10:3-11)
Their mission was both practical and theological. They were forerunners preparing the way for Jesus himself, and their message was not merely about ethics or improvement—it was about the inbreaking of God's reign. Their dependence on hospitality also meant they were deeply embedded in the communities they visited.
How Is This Group Different from the Twelve Apostles?
The Twelve had symbolic significance tied to the twelve tribes of Israel. They were the inner circle, witnesses to Jesus' resurrection, and their names appear in the lists of Acts and the Gospels.
The Seventy (or Seventy-Two) were a larger group, anonymous in the biblical record, and likely included both men and women. They were not limited to a particular tribal symbolism but instead echoed a missional impulse to reach the wider world. Their ministry was momentary but significant. They weren’t establishing a permanent order like the Apostles but showing that the mission of Jesus always expands beyond any exclusive circle.
Theological Significance of the Seventy
This passage reminds us that ministry is never limited to a select few. The kingdom of God is carried by many voices, often unnamed. Jesus didn’t rely solely on the Twelve. He sent out a second wave, ordinary followers with extraordinary purpose. That speaks directly to the priesthood of all believers and the urgency of mission.
Their return is filled with joy: "Lord, in your name even the demons submit to us!" (Luke 10:17). But Jesus redirects their joy: "Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven" (Luke 10:20).
Their effectiveness is not the point—faithfulness is.
Where Are They Remembered?
Early Christian tradition, especially in the Eastern Church, developed lists of who these disciples might have been. Figures like Stephen the Martyr, Barnabas, Sosthenes, and even Luke himself appear in these traditions. However, the Bible does not name them. This reminds us not to crave fame but to fulfill our role in the story of the kingdom.
Some liturgical calendars, especially in Orthodox traditions, mark the Feast of the Seventy Apostles. While not universally celebrated, the existence of such a feast underscores how important this group was to early Christians.
Seventy or Seventy-Two?
Why the discrepancy? Some early manuscripts say seventy, others seventy-two. Scholars debate the reason, with some suggesting it reflects different symbolic numerologies. The number seventy echoes the elders with Moses or the nations in Genesis; seventy-two aligns with a variant reading of Genesis 10 in the Septuagint. Neither number changes the core meaning: Jesus empowered a broader movement.
Meaning for Today
The story of the Seventy is a reminder that mission doesn’t belong to professionals or celebrities. God calls, equips, and sends ordinary people. We may not be named in history books, but our work matters. The Church is never limited to its leaders. From the earliest days, Jesus has sent out anonymous disciples to carry hope into the world.
When we step out in faith, even without sandals or a change of clothes, we walk in the footsteps of the Seventy. And when our joy turns to power or fame, Jesus gently reminds us: rejoice not in the results, but in your belonging.
FAQ
What Bible passage mentions the Seventy disciples?
Luke 10:1-20 is the only passage that describes this group.
Why do some versions say Seventy and others Seventy-Two?
The variation comes from differences in ancient manuscripts. Both numbers are rooted in biblical symbolism.
Are any of the Seventy named in the Bible?
No. Early church tradition assigns names to some, but the Bible itself keeps them anonymous.
What was their message?
They were to declare peace, heal the sick, and proclaim that "the kingdom of God has come near."
What is the significance of sending them two by two?
It emphasizes mutual support, accountability, and witness. Jewish law also required two witnesses for validity.
